in between days

What did you do 8 months after having twins?

2011-10-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well Aimee ran a marathon! That's what she did and she started her marathon career with one of the more notoriously hard marathons. I am so proud of you Aimee. You inspire and amaze me and so many other people. The goals you set and achieve make you the coolest person I know...and I know some pretty cool people. I love you. Thanks for making me want to be better and for being the best wife and mom ever known to mankind.

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freeze time

2011-08-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ever wish you could freeze time?
I do.
A lot.
I'd freeze time right now.
I bet I've told Tyler that a hundred times throughout our marriage.
We're having a lot of fun.
It's busy, and stressful, and a bit crazy but time is passing and passing to quickly.
I love these faces. Even when sometimes they drive me crazy.
I'm happy their my faces to love.

I'm a horrible blogger.
And I've missed a lot of good stuff---
Jackson's birthday, baby blessings, Odee swimming, A LOT of Utah fun.
We had a wonderful summer.
I hope to catch up soon.
So come back :)

An open birthday card to my wife

2011-05-13T09:56:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to the most amazing person I know. I love you so very much. I have always know that you were wonder woman in the flesh (minus the invisible plane) but you have shown everyone lately that you are truly much more than just a wonder woman. I am amazed at all you do. Each of our kids adore everything about you. I love your sense of adventure, your drive, your competitiveness, your kindness to others, your laugh, your sense of humor, your strength, your faith, your humility, your love for bikes and skiing, and I love just you being you. You are so talented and such an incredible mom. Who'd a thunk that 14 years after meeting we would be where we are now and even more awesome than we were then (and we were pretty dang awesome 14 years ago!). Thank you for all you do for our family. We love you so much and are grateful to have you in our lives. I hope you have an off the hook birthday and a great day. I hope the twins cut you some slack and that Olivia is an angel child today and you can sneak a nap in. 31 is gonna make 30 look so lame! Happy birthday babe. Love you!

Love,
T.

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Visitor--Kiddos---Easter

2011-04-26T20:20:00.000-07:00

Well once again I'm behind on my blogging so you get a post filled with a bunch of pics. That's all you really want anyway I'm sure of it. I have never been so busy in all my life, the days are just flying by. Four kids and a hubby in med school----very busy.

This is Auntie Shan Shan (shante'). She is married to my little bro. She came out and stayed with us for a week. We were so excited and loved having her here. She is 6 1/2 months pregnant with their first and it's a full day of traveling to get to us so we were so grateful she was able to come. She made us dinner every night she was here. And then doubled the recipe so we could freeze them for later, it was awesome. A personal cook one day would rock! We sewed, exercised, played at the park and took care of kiddos (pretty sure we wore her out). We love you Shan---thanks for coming to see us.
This is me trying to get a good pic with all four kids. I don't think we'll ever have a "normal" family pic again :) Love it!

I'd snuggle these two all day if I could.

Our babes are growing. We took them for their 2 month check up last week. They aren't quite on the charts yet but at least they've put on some weight. Their basically out of newborn clothes---woohoo! It's also a little sad at the same time, I love how tiny they are.

Nora weighed in at 7 pounds 6 ounces

Crosby weighed in at 8 pounds

They both are smiling and cooing a lot. And they have both found their hands and usually have a wet sleeve from sucking on them. I love when you find them with their arm straight up in the air starring at it looking like they have a question.
They are both eating great and love being held. Next, sleeping through the night (i hope).

Mmmm---scrumptious. Don't you just want to kiss those faces!?!

EASTER
The spouses association does an Easter egg hunt every year. We had beautiful weather and the kids had a blast.

EASTER MORNING
Poor little J had strep but it certainly didn't slow him down. Both him and O were pretty excited for the Easter bunny. The night before O ask us if the Easter bunny was pretend----aaa what now, aren't you way to little to be asking those questions!

We colored eggs. Our best coloring experience yet.

We bbq'd. We were suppose to eat with some friends but due to the whole strep thing we didn't want to share the love. We had all already bought the food so we met in our driveway and did a food swap of what we would have brought. So we still had a delicious Easter dinner but just a little lonely.

And these two precious babes were there too. Just doing what they do best, hanging out mixed with some crying :)
We hope you all had a wonderful Easter.

This Princess is 3

2011-03-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

Nope this isn't Nora this is our precious little Odee. She was such a beautiful good baby. She was born with tons of dark hair, dark eyebrows, dark eyelashes. Her big brother adored her and she brought us so much happiness.

It's hard to believe 3 years have passed since she was born. It's hard to believe that she was only 3 months old when we moved to MO. She still has tons of dark hair, eyebrows and eyelashes. Her and J still have an amazing relationship and she is still bringing us lots of laughs and happiness (mixed with a little frustration at times too). This girl definitely knows what she wants and she's pretty good at getting it. She is very motherly, makes us laugh daily, feisty, cuddle bug, will eat most anything, loves her siblings, independent, and is my stay at home buddy.

Tyler and I never wanted her to be into princesses but I have to admit it's pretty darn cute and we love to see her dressed up.
She is definitely a PRINCESS.

We had a little princess/prince birthday party last Sunday.
Played pin the lips on the frog.

Princess cake walk
(i love her in these high heels)

Got spoiled

And had a little cake

We love you Odee. You will always be our baby girl. You are beautiful, smart and full of life.
Happy Birthday!

And for your viewing pleasure---more cute kids.
Nora

Crosby

Beautiful babes
(more on them to come)

Happy One Month!

2011-03-06T08:56:00.000-08:00

---Be ready for a seriously long post---

Read if you want or just check out some ridiculously cute babies

Wow I can't believe our babes are 4 weeks old. I am excited and sad all at the same time. I can't believe how fast it has gone. I love the newborn stage. It's challenging at times but I love their sweet innocents, the way they cuddle, the way they just want to be loved. And trust me they get plenty of love around here, sometimes a little too much love (um Odee).
I'm going to rewind a bit (4 weeks to be exact) to their birth day. Here is their story.
I always knew these little ones would come early. I was hoping they would come by 36 weeks and they did not disappoint. I was hoping to be able to go natural, again they did not disappoint. Saturday February 5th was just like any other day. I was feeling pretty sick and having lots of back/sciatic/rib pain. We hit the Walmart to load up on food, made cupcakes for a super bowl party the next day (we just love football---who played again?!?), Tyler studied. That night when I went to bed I was feeling extra sick. Around 1:30am I got up and puked, I should have known right then that I my body was getting ready to deliver, I did that with all my kids. I didn't have any contractions until Sunday morning starting around 9:30am. They were pretty mild and varied between 4-10 minutes apart. I showered, played some Mario with J, ate breakfast---I love doing the laboring at home. At 1pm our good friends came and got the kids for church. That's when the real fun began :) The contractions were more intense and really close together, I felt like I never got a break. At that point I told Tyler I wanted an epidural, I didn't know if I had the confidence to do it twice. Around 2pm we headed to the hospital (which is only a mile away). We checked in and got into a room, all of which is kind of a blur. The nurse asked if I wanted an epidural, I told her yes but deep down I knew I was to late. She checked me and I was already to a 10 (it was like a repeat of when J was born) although I didn't freak out like I did with J. I had done it twice before, I could do it again. After the nurse found out I was a 10 the delivery room was filled with a crowd of people. My eyes were closed through most of it, I just prayed my doctor would get there in time. Thank goodness for a small town, he made it just in time for me to push. That first push was probably by far the worst, thought I just might die. I remember the pain, having to have oxygen and I remember Tyler being right at my side. I couldn't have done it without him. He was so loving and supportive and he gave me all the confidence I needed. With only 5 pushes our little Nora was born at 2:40pm. Tyler got to cut the cord, I got to sneak a peak and then then they took her away to get her in the warmer. It was sad not to be able to hold her right away but I knew I still had work to do. Crosby was such a good little boy and followed his sister. He moved himself head down, it couldn't have been more perfect. My doctor did have to manuever his head a bit, now that was painful and Tyler said I yelled at my doctor :) But 4 minutes and 2 pushes later, little Crosby was born at 2:44pm. Tyler got to cut his cord too and I got to spend a little more time with him. They gave him to me right away and we got to enjoy some time together, giving him many kisses. I have to say that this delivery was the most amazing bizzare moment in my life. Delivering 2 babies felt surreal. It's hard to put into words how I felt, I hope I never forget. It really took some time to sink in. We were so lucky and felt very fortunate that they were both healthy and had no problems. These little ones were ready to come to our family. They are little peanuts, we adore them.

Both J and O were in a bit of shock when they came to the hospital. But it didn't take them long to warm up. O thought that she could only hold the baby girl and J could only hold the baby boy. She'll hold C now though. They loved hanging out at the hospital. Playing with the bed and having all the juice and graham crackers they could handle.

Family of 6

Crosby's first tubby. This boy does not like to be naked (i'm sure that wont last). He's got a set of lungs.

Nora is a little more easy going. She thought the tubby was quite enjoyable.

Thank goodness for grandparents.
My mom spent almost 3 weeks with us, we were very grateful. Definitely not a dream vacation being cooped up inside all day but I couldn't have done it without her. Lot's of cleaning, folding laundry, entertaining kids and dog.
Grandma Reeder

At the end of her stay my dad came out for the weekend. It's hard living so far away from Grandma's and Grandpa's.
Grandpa Reeder

Ty's parents also came for a weekend and now g-ma Smith is staying with us for a week. Again, so grateful. Tyler is heading into finals and I know I may be going crazy if she wasn't here. It's so nice having an extra set of hands to hold a baby. Want to hold a baby? Come on over ;)
Thank you Grandma's and Grandpa's---it just didn't feel right until these little ones could meet you.
Grandma and Grandpa Smith

These babes sure have brought a whole new light into our lives. It honestly took me about 2 weeks to not look at them and think "wow 2 babies, this is weird". Now I look at them and it seams so normal so amazing so perfect.

We've had our ups and downs since we've been home. Mostly with nursing and weight gain. We've had some tears, frustration and sleepless nights. But we are doing a lot better. Nursing is going very well and these peanuts are putting on some weight. We had a weight check last week and Nora was a chunky 5lbs 2oz and Crosby back up to his pudgy birth weight of 5lbs 4oz. We were very excited. J and O are handling all this change very well. J's laid back personality makes it easy and O is a second mother around the house. She's had some jealous moments but I guess that is to be expected. They both definitely have lots of love to give.

Our sweet baby girl
Our precious baby boy
What would they do without each other?
And what would we do without them?
I have felt so much love and peace since they entered our life. Our life has changed---its a bit crazy, a bit busy, a bit chaotic but this is our life and we couldn't be happier.

Happy One Week!

2011-02-13T19:22:00.001-08:00

Happy one week sweet little babes.
Ty and I agree it's been one of the shortest longest weeks of our lives :)
They really are good babies and we feel so grateful they are part of our family. This is how they sleep, always cuddling. If you take one away the other is sure to cry. Now they just need to put on some more weight---were working on that.
I promise to post more soon, I promise a "birth story".
But for now I must sleep :)

A few pics for your pleasure

2011-02-08T17:46:00.001-08:00

So this is the best I can do for now but I hope you can appreciate the awesomeness of these cuties even with these mobile pics. Everyone is doing good but the babes have lost a little too much weight so they are staying in the hospital another night for now and that means Aimee (aka. Baby food) is staying as well. As soon as we are all home and a little less crazy I'll download the good pics and get a real post up. Thank yous to everyone for helping out the last few days. We have been have been blessed with some incredible friends and family!

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They are here!

2011-02-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

Meet little Nora Junie Smith (on the left) born today at 2:40 pm weighing 4 tiny pounds and 8 itsy bitsy ounces and Crosby Hartley Smith (on the right) born at 2:44 pm weighing 5 hefty pounds and 4 midsized ounces. All are doing well including mom....she is just ready for a good nights rest. We are so happy to have them here and healthy and feel so blessed for all the support of friends and family both here and afar. Aimee never stops amazing me and she did so again today. A natural birth is an amazing thing with one but with twins....she is wonder woman in the flesh! More pics will come soon but until then, please feel free to drool over the cuteness of this one.

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It snowed a little bit today

2011-02-01T18:40:00.001-08:00

This is how mother nature sticks it to those who laugh off a blizzard warning.

Now let's hope Aimee doesn't go into labor....there's no way I'm in good enough shape to get us shoveled out in time. Plus I would be so sore that I wouldn't be able to hold a baby for at least a week.

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What do you think?

2011-01-29T01:38:00.000-08:00

Nora
Norah

Were having a hard time deciding???

34 Weeks

2011-01-26T17:24:00.000-08:00

Wow! That belly is getting large. And unfortunately so is the rest of me---face, legs, arms, butt. Have I mentioned how much I love pregnancy! Good thing you get to have precious babies when this is all said and done. I'm having all sorts of side effects I never had with J and O, but I guess that is to be expected. Tyler now has to cut my toe nails and the kids help me put my shoes on, and I don't even want to know what my legs look like. And if I drop something food related on the floor you can bet I'm calling the dog over to clean it up.
I had an ultra sound this week and here are the stats---
Baby girl 4lbs 7oz
Baby boy 4lbs 3oz
So things are moving along smoothly. All is good and healthy, which we are very grateful for. My goal is to go naturally. I would love to avoid being induced or a c-section. My doctor is all for that plan. Although if I get past 36 weeks and these little ones still aren't here being induced is going to be very tempting. I feel like I would even do it now :)
Also, we FINALLY decided on names---
Crosby and Nora
(middle names are still in the works).
-by the way I'm constantly holding my back like this and I am an expert waddler-
We have been busy getting ready. We finally ordered car seats. When we brought these home Tyler and I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Not because of the 2 babies but mostly because of the room we don't have for anything. It will be a full house. But how cute are those!?! Were excited.

I've also been going through bins and bins of baby clothes, which was quite overwhelming. We were very lucky to already have a boy and girl. I have washed and folded. I can't believe I've already filled up an entire dresser. Tonight I packed my hospital bag (think the twins are getting the hint yet), made sure the camera battery was charged, and had my mom book her flight out here. I think the only thing left to do is to re-arrange our bedroom to fit a pack-n-play. I am all about being ready, so I'm feeling better already.

And I just had to include this picture because it clearly shows how my kids could get away with murder these days. They know I can't move fast and I don't really have the energy to say no. So this is O eating her nutritious breakfast of chicken nuggets---hey don't judge!

So this is our update thus far. I say "bring on the babies".
I also want to thank all of those who have already sent adorable gifts, friends who have brought us meals, watched my kids and family who has committed to coming out to help. Tyler and I couldn't be more grateful.

Christmas in Missouri

2011-01-06T18:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year was a bit different for us. We decided it would be best not to travel back to Utah. It was definitely bitter sweet. I had my break down moments where I was wishing we were there but it was really nice to be home. It was relaxing---we rarely had to get out of pj's and we really got to enjoy having Ty home for his 2 week break. We missed family, friends, skiing, and I certainly had to cook a lot more than usual :) Makes you realize all the hard work your parents still put into making sure their kids (and grandkids) have a great Christmas. Thank goodness we had some good friends who also stayed so we weren't completely alone. We tried our best to keep with the family traditions. Really wanting to make sure it felt like Christmas.

We hung lights.
Jackson was such a good little helper and Olivia wanted to stay in the warm house (me too). We baked A LOT of treats.

Tyler taught the kids how to make his delicious fudge.

We saw santa.
Odee's list---baby, princesses and a stroller.

Jackson's list---zhu zhu pets, wii, transformers.

We played out the nativity.
Handsome Joseph.

Beautiful Mary.

We shoveled snow.

We pounded out chicken for Christmas Eve Chicken Cordon Bleu.

We sprinkled Reindeer dust.

Waiting for the "okay" to come out and see what Santa brought.
Remember this feeling? Being a kid Christmas morning was the best!

And we enjoyed every present!

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Homemade gifts are more fun for the home maker of the home made gift

2010-12-21T14:27:00.001-08:00

Over the years we have started to resort more to homemade gifts. This is do to many things ranging from lack of diñero to the increase in creativity and talents in our home...but mostly the money thing.

Anyways, this increase in homemade gifts has shown me that the giver/maker of the homemade gift gets as much, if not more, enjoyment from creating the gift than the receiver gets from the receiving. Take last night's gift making session for Jackson's teacher. It got crazy up in here!

Much fun was had...maybe even more fun than Mrs. Yardley had with her Christmas ornament. Aimee even got in on the action with a pendant necklace for the well deserving kindergarten teacher but I can't post those pics due to her new hobby of hand crafting in the buff. Like I said, more fun in the making than in the receiving of a homemade gift. Like all good things, it had to come to an end which means a long clean up

I need to find a craft that I'm good at. Maybe next year everyone can expect to receive a hand carved ice sculpture from me and of me. Shipping may be an issue. Merry Christmas from the ice prince.

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27 weeks and Thanksgiving

2010-12-08T19:20:00.001-08:00

Yep I'm putting these two posts together. It just seemed like more work to split them up :). I promised my sister I would post a pic every month so I am a bit behind. Here I am, 27 weeks. I had an ultra sound last week and both babes were 2lbs 1oz and healthy. They are growing and so am I. My goal for the next few weeks is to be more positive about pregnancy. I am not a good pregnant person. I'm sick (yes still), can't breath, can't sleep, can't exercise, can't cuddle my kids, ask Tyler nearly every day if he still thinks I'm cute (he's smart and always answers yes). I just plain hate being pregnant. But I am very grateful for these little ones and know it's not forever. So I'm going to TRY to have a better attitude :)Moving on to much cuter people.

Thanksgiving was awesome. We were fortunate to spend it with friends we haven't seen in months. We spent the first 2 days of break with some friends in Illinios (which i didn't get pics of). Then we made the rest of the trek to Ohio to see the Warners and Millers. Well worth the drive.
We missed these cute faces.

And I know J missed being surrounded by all girls.

And I certainly missed these 2 faces.

Thanks for the fun relaxing week. The kids played so well together we hardly had to do much. They even all slept in one room. It was fun to hear them giggle as they tried to go to sleep, and of course O was always the last one asleep. Thanks for the good food, laughs and late nights. We can't wait to see you again.

This first born of ours

2010-11-13T09:46:00.000-08:00

The other night I tickled this little boys face to sleep (i love that he still lets me do that). And I started thinking what a special little boy he is. There is something special about your first born, something that maybe only a mom and dad can see. I see it in J everyday.

I feel like he has grown up so fast since he started Kindergarten---which I love and hate all at the same time. His reading and writing skills make me smile. He was never one to sit and create things but now he wants to do it all the time. He wrote this book the other day in church (of course it was about avatar). Here are one of my favorite pages. It made me laugh.
If you can't see it, it says---
"But Momo wanted to flush himself down the toilet".
"I will flush me down the toilet".

I love that he wants to sleep in nothing but his cute little boy underwear.
I love that he thinks it's cool to slick your hair back.

I love that he'd rather have shrimp, crab and mushrooms over any other food.
I love that if we're making anything with cheese (cheese chips, cheese eggs) he always asks if he can do the "cheesening". I now am starting to use it like a real word.
I love that he wants to make costumes out of paper (which really doesn't work). This is his bat costume.

I love that he lets his sister in on everything he does. They really have such a special bond, and always have.
I love that he has figured out how to let O do everything for him :). Put his dishes in the sink, get him a drink, fetch the remote (as i write this O is letting me know that J wants a cookie). She's happy to do favors for him.

Most of all I love that he's ours. I truly feel that Heavenly Father sent him to us first for a reason. He's such a good big brother and I know he'll love these new babies. He has such a tender heart.
We love you J!

31 and awesome

2010-11-04T19:18:00.001-07:00

Need I say more?
I remember one of the first times I went to Tyler's house was on his 18th birthday---wow we've known each other a long time.
I am truly grateful.
Happy Birthday to my wonderful hubby.

Halloween

2010-11-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Or happy late Halloween
Halloween was full of parties, trunk or treats, YMCA carnival, sugar highs and late nights.
It was fabulous.

AVATAR---the last air bender. He has some sweet air bending skills.

Butterfly/fairy/princess
Isn't she beautiful

Halloween dinner
Broccoli cheese soup in bread bowls---mmm comfort food.

Hope your Halloween was fun
Now onto Thanksgiving!

20 weeks

2010-10-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

I really am against posting any prego pics of me but with being so far away from family and friends I guess it must be done. So for those of you that have been requesting, this is for you :) Enjoy these pictures taken by the J-man.

Now honestly I have almost doubled in size over the past couple weeks. I am not making this up, even Tyler agrees. I feel large---winded going up steps, hard time bending over, wanting to live in sweats.

Now just to give you a better idea this picture below is when I was pregnant with O, only about a week before I delivered. I seriously am not that far off from this size. Wow it's going to be a long uncomfortable 4 months. I guess I am grateful these little ones are growing. So far all is looking good with the babies. The shock has worn off and were pretty excited.

Little miss O

2010-10-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wish your bum was cute enough to feel comfortable playing on the ground pushing a tractor around?---I do.
O is ready to take on the challenge of twins. Although she is an over achiever and is conquering triplets (i would die).

It Was The Shock of Our Lives!

2010-10-02T19:06:00.000-07:00

Friday we went in for our routine ultra sound to find out the sex of our baby. You can imagine our reaction when the ultra sound tech looked at us and asked us if we knew there were 2 in there? Um what now? I looked at Tyler who looked like he may pass out and I felt like I may throw up right there on the bed. Jackson said "awesome" and Olivia doesn't even know what's coming her way. My mom is in town and was able to witness this crazy moment---I just remember her cheering and clapping her hands, oh Grandmas.
There have been tears, laughs, happiness, fear, disbelief and more tears over the past 24 hours. Seriously can I handle twins!?! I honestly think Heavenly Father knew I couldn't go through pregnancy again :). But we are very excited and grateful. Now that we know there are 2 little ones so many things are coming together---the ridiculous sickness, my already large tummy, already feeling like I have no room in there after each meal, and Tyler always feeling like this pregnancy was twins. Next Monday I'll meet with my doctor so I should have some more details about these little ones.

Two little heads.
One little baby girl.

And one little baby boy. Yep that's right a girl and a boy.

I never thought I would ever be having twins, I have many moments throughout the day where I'm still in disbelief. But then there's those moments where I'm so very excited.
If your wondering if I'm done having kids----you bet I am :)

The boys are off to school

2010-08-28T07:19:00.001-07:00

Let me just start off by saying if you thought I was a horrible blogger before, I don't think being pregnant is going to help my cause. Why does pregnancy have to be so difficult---aren't we suppose to be having these babies!?! But things are starting to feel a bit better. Come March I'll feel like a million bucks. Alright enough venting, on to the good stuff.

My baby boy started Kindergarten. Yes he will forever be my baby boy and I'm sure to remind him of that. Now having your first go to Kindergarten is hard enough but when you live in a state where it's ALL DAY it's even worse. I've been gearing J and I up for all day Kindergarten for months. So far he is loving it and the most difficult part is getting him up in the mornings.
He looks way to big.Now Odee on the other hand is not happy about J (or daddy) going to school. She cries every day when he leaves or holds on to him and says "my jackson". It really is heartbreaking.

Last weekend was Tyler's white coat ceremony. This is where all the first year med students get their white coat. It was an exciting day and one we've been looking forward to. Now Ty has to go to school all day and as the weeks go by he'll be gone nights as well. We were very spoiled having daddy to ourselves for almost 3 months. It was awesome.

The biomed crew.

Ty's parents came in for the weekend. We love visitors and were very happy they came to celebrate this day with us. Thanks Smith's for taking care of us through the weekend.

So now Odee and I are left to entertain ourselves---
good thing she's pretty entertaining.

Booyeah!

2010-08-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

Jackson became a man today. He took that step that will allow him to truly enjoy life, live life, impress girls, and get into heaven. We are what you might call the proudest parents around. It's kind of a big deal....if you like bikes that is. I kinda like bikes so I'm given him props. We've been practicing ever since we got back from Utah whenever the humidity didn't make it impossible for Jackson to hold onto the handle bars due to the gallons of sweat that were pouring from my head. Running behind a bike all hunched over holding onto the seat is hard enough without 100 degree weather and 100% humidity but I made the sacrifice. Yeah, I'm a pretty awesome dad. Anyways, so proud of the J-Man.

Olivia was in on the action and will soon be well on her way to riding her own 2 wheeler.

It was hot and the red faces and sweaty heads were earned the best way possible...under a bike helmet. Now let's just hope they don't become one of those weird dudes that ride unicycles.

Travel Log Summer 2010

2010-08-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

Miles Driven: 5,602
States Visited/Passed Through: 8
Potty Breaks: 2.8 million
Dogs Successfully Snuck In and Out of a Hotel Under a Blanket (don't judge us): 1
Nights Spent in a Tent: 9
Persons Successfully Impregnated: 1 (in case you didn't know)
Vomit Breaks (in the car and on the boat): too many for any one person...poor Aimee

Road trips rule but it's also good to be home. I did the math so now Aimee will now have the huge task of putting pics up and filling in the details...

Go ahead and VOTE

2010-07-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

My darling neice is trying out to be a Utah Jazz dancer.

She has made the top 30.

So if you have a spare minute follow this link below and vote for her.

She is the first picture---her name is Samantha.

Thanks!!!

http://www.nba.com/jazz/dance/1011_dancer_vote_now.html

ps--i know i'm a horrible blogger. we've been out of town so as soon as were home i'll be back in business.

Cozy little porch swing

2010-05-30T12:39:00.001-07:00

My thoughtful husband got me a porch swing for my birthday.
I have been talking about getting one since we moved here---I love it. First the boys painted it. Then Tyler put it together and hung it.
And now we swing---all the time.

The kids love it. We eat breakfast on it and popsicles.
And watch for cardinals.
And O loves to give her brother "under doggies"--although she calls them "under puppies" since doggie isn't in her vocabulary.

Being 5 is Delicious

2010-05-29T18:07:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to our little boy who is slowly becoming our little man. You are the best big brother a bossy little sister could ask for and you make your mom and dad laugh with your funny little comments using a new word you learned regardless of whether or not you know how to use it. We love you J-man and hope the scootering to the farmers market for a cinnamon roll, swimming your guts out all day, shrimp and corn on the cob dinner and brownie dessert (a day full of favorites) made 5 more awesome than 4.

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My Friend Greg

2010-05-21T19:59:00.001-07:00

This is my friend Greg Price and this is just how it is with him, you see him and you want to be friends with him. These goats climbed right into his cart while we were golfing 2 weeks ago and I'm sure it was because they knew, just like the rest of us who know him know, that he is the most genuine, kind person you will ever meet. We have been able to get to know Greg and his family during our time here in Missouri but funny thing is, Greg went to the same High School as Aimee and I and he was only a grade behind us....small world. Greg's little boy Scott is one of Jackson's best friends and he and I just finished coaching their soccer team to what we would call a winning season! Greg is one of the most naturally athletic people I have ever met and kicked my trash all over the golf course. Why am I telling you about Greg? Because he was diagnosed today with a brain tumor and will be undergoing surgery this Monday to remove the tumor and you can help Greg and his family. Greg was sent to another hospital about an hour and half from where we all live so his family will be living out of hotel for the next little while and on top of these costs, the medical bills will be accumulating quickly. As students it is hard enough to survive without incidents like these so take a minute and click on the link to the right and donate anything you can and help my friend Greg.

He did it!

2010-05-18T11:27:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Tyler!
Last weekend Tyler walked at commencement with a degree of
Master of Science in Biomedical Research.
I was so proud of him. He worked so hard and spent
MANY hours up in the lab doing experiments and writing a thesis.
We loved having Ty's parents in town.
We spent a day in Nauvoo and played around the house.
Thank you for coming out, Olivia is still asking where you are. One Masters down one medical degree to go.
Happy Graduation!

30 has never been so awesome!

2010-05-13T21:25:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my amazing wife! You make 30 more awesome than I did (and that's pretty hard to do). Here's to 300 yrs more! Much love....to my baby.

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Mirror mirror on the wall....

2010-04-16T15:40:00.001-07:00

A princess indeed.

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To shave or not to shave?

2010-04-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well that was the question---
but I lost the battle. I love the curls.
But this little guy has been begging and begging for a shave (mostly because he wants to look like avatar, the cartoon--for those who are familiar).
Well we finally gave in, it was rough.

We almost kept the rat tail---those are still cool right?
But doesn't he look HANDSOME!
It's a bit more difficult to pick my little man out of a group of kids. And when you see him for the first time you may have to do a double take. He looks so grown up, maybe that's the real reason I didn't want to cut it :)
Can't stop kissing that cute face.
But he did tell me yesterday he wants his hair back.

In what order do you do things?

2010-03-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

Let's just hope he decides to go with pulling the pants up before washing hands when he's at school, otherwise making friends is going to be tricky.

(Sick of seeing our kids half naked on this blog?)
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Happy Birthday Olivia

2010-03-20T08:27:00.001-07:00

You are the funniest, cutest, sweetest little girl and you are an even more amazing multi-tasker. Happy birthday baby girl!

Oh she's got sass---

2010-03-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

This girl makes me want to laugh and cry all in the same moment.
Let's just say she's got personality.
It's funny to see the personality of the second child compared to the first.
She's feisty, knows what she wants, and doesn't mess around to get it.
I'm learning a lot. Learning to embrace her sassyness (it's a word, right).

Good thing she's so dang cute---we'll keep her.
We have been in "potty training" mode. This is her with her 4 babies making sure all there diapers are changed and then she takes them one by one and puts them on the toilet. One pair of underwear is not good enough for O, we must wear 4.

Also one slice of cheese will not suffice, we must have the entire brick.

And when you ask her to go get her pj's this is what you get.
She loves being naked.
Can't resist those buns.

Thank goodness for the "down" moments.
Seriously wouldn't be be bored without them!?!

Finally!

2010-03-06T11:53:00.000-08:00

Most of you are already aware of what Aimee has been through lately. We are happy to report that it seams like we are finally on our way to normal. After an ultrasound, x-ray, one lapraoscopic surgery, a CT scan, another ultrasound, a second laparoscopic surgery turned laparoectomy combined with ultrasound and fluoroscopy we finally got it. I present the world's most elusive IUD.

(my apologies to the squeamish) They found this little bastard tangled in the omentum so that's what the IUD is all covered in. Aim is pretty sore and still feeling a little tired. Here she is sleepy off an anesthesia hangover.

Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers and to everyone who has brought food and helped with the kids. The kids and I are doing our best to help Aimee recover. Now if we can just keep the kids and dog from jumping on Aimee as they try to cuddle her but she's just so cuddly.

Utah, Christmas, New Years and all that good stuff

2010-01-11T19:03:00.001-08:00

Let me just start off by saying I know what a horrible blogger I am. I'm amazed at you people who can do it nearly every day---heck every week. Now that I've got that off my chest we can move on.

Christmas in Utah! It was lovely. Oh I could post a million pictures but I'll try to get by with only 16. We did so many things in the time we were there---here are my favorites...

Breakfast with Santa
Hanging out with both families
Hanging out with friends
Kristin coming into town
Hanging out all day with our very missed kville friends and the husbands taking the kids sledding
Late night with my girlfriends
Utah runs
Spinning with my mom
Delicious restaurants
Taking tracks to Temple Sqaure
Alvin and the Chipmunks (lie!)
Jackson ice skating for the first time
Skiing
Sleeping in
Eating whatever I wanted whenever I wanted
Having Tyler all day long
Christmas
New Years

Christmas morning. The kids were so excited. Isn't this the best part? I love watching the kids.

Olivia finally got some girl toys. Which included a my little pony and princess dress ups. Se loves the princess shoes.

That's right it's a snuggie. And don't you worry I got one too (although mine is super cool because it says WEEZER on it). I've been joking about the snuggies for a while now and now we own them. Now instead of snuggling Jackson asks me if I want to snuggie. Santa was good to J, he got a remote control car, scooter and transformers (of course).

Our dear parents---what would we do without them. My Dad had a double knee replacement a couple days before I got to Utah and T's dad had surgery for a double hernia while we were there. So they were both a bit drugged for Christmas. But both are doing better. We sure love those parents of ours and so do the kids.

Mom and Dad R

Mom and Dad S

Yummy yummy sushi---mmm I can still taste it's deliciousness.

New Years---nothin like shirtless dancing.

Ty and I were able to go skiing with both our brothers and then a couple days later we took the kids. It was a blast. J loves it and I wish he could go more than once a year. We didn't put O on skis, we just took turns holding her down the hill. After a couple times she was trying to push us off our skis and saying "I ski I ski". Maybe next year baby girl.

After a couple times down the bunny hill he wanted to do it all by himself. Even made a couple turns.

All alone on the tow rope. I was the nerdy mom jumping up and down and taking pictures because I was so proud.

It was an awesome day.

We love Christmas in Utah. It's extremely busy but worth the family time. Love you all see you in the summer!

I love Fall

2009-11-24T08:58:00.001-08:00

Fall makes me happy. Maybe it's the pumpkin treats (pumpkin ice cream, yum!), leaves changing colors, pants with short sleeved shirts, cooler running temps but most of all I love fall walks with the family. This is one of our last hikes out at 1000 Hills.

Happy MomHappy Dad

Happy Kids

And one happy dog---doesn't it look like she's smiling?

You say its your birthday----

2009-11-09T11:19:00.000-08:00

I truly can not believe Tyler is 30! I think I'm in denial because that means my turn is coming soon. But for those of you that know Tyler, you know he is quite young at heart. Always willing to play and have fun, thinks anything to do with farting is hilarious, loves his family. He is a very dedicated in everything that he does. Nothing is done half way for him---it's all or nothing. He's a hard worker and a family man. I love you babe---here's to many more BIRTHDAYS!

The kids made him poster board filled with pictures.

Thank you to everyone from home who sent birthday emails---he loved them.

We had a little b-day party.
We rocked out to guitar hero.

Hope you had a great birthday.
We love you!

BOO!!!

2009-11-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

One Cat Woman

One Batman
2 cute superheros

And of course Halloween pj's
HAPPY BELATED HALLOWEEN!

Kansas City 1/2 Marathon

2009-10-22T13:39:00.001-07:00

Can't believe this race has come and gone. I was so happy Tyler was able to do this one too (although he's much faster than I). It was wonderful to know that the kids were safe back in the hotel with Grandma. Thank you again.

There were 4 of us girls that all trained together. I love having people to train with. Bree and I ran together, although at mile 11 I couldn't keep her pace so I had to finish the last 2 miles alone. It was one of the hilliest races I've ever done. No lie first 10 miles up hill. It was challenging.

I love sharing these moments with Tyler. You did awesome babe.
Tyler finished in 1:43.54
I finished in 1:59.34 (my goal was under 2 hours, I barely made it)
I am now ready to rest from training and enjoy some dessert. It was hard going on vacation right before a race and trying to be good with eating and training. Tyler and I have already finished off a whole package of oreos in 2 days :)

Kansas City

2009-10-22T12:44:00.001-07:00

Grandma Smith offered to fly back to Missouri with us(which i was so grateful for, thank you). She stayed in Kansas City with us for a couple days and watched the kids for us while Ty and I ran the KC 1/2 marathon.

Isn't staying in a hotel the best when your little? Actually it's still fun as an adult. J loved jumping from bed to bed.We went to a Children's Museum. The kids had a blast.

Thank you Grandma Smith for coming out and staying with us, buying us custard (mmm) and helping out with the kids. Come back soon.

Condor Classic Bike Ride

2009-10-22T12:21:00.001-07:00

While in California me, my parents and my sister rode in the Condor Classic. It was in San Benito county which was about 90 miles from Kristin's house. So the night before we put the kids to bed and got ourselves a hotel room to be closer to the start. My bro-in-law watched ALL the kids for us. Thank you Brig! It was nice to get away with my family. It was a beautiful day. My mom and I rode the 40 mile route and Kristin and my dad did the 100 miles. I was so proud of all of them.

Utah to California to Kansas City

2009-10-22T12:03:00.001-07:00

Needless to say it was a busy 2 weeks with lots of traveling. But well worth it! I'll have to break this into a couple post because it was jammed packed! The kids and I took a little vaca to see the family (poor ty had to stay at home, he had the dog to keep him company). We flew to Utah, stayed for less then 2 days then made the 13 hour drive to see my sister in California. I'm grateful my parents still love my children after spending that much time with them cooped up in the car. But we made it and it was fabulous and warm. I wish we could have stayed for a couple more days. After Cali we drove back to Utah, there for 2 days and then flew back to Mo.

Here are a few pictures from California

Olivia and MaisyCooper taught Jackson some sweet skate tricks.

Lots of outside time. Their backyard is awesome and they deserve it.

Cooled down just enough for a dip in the hot tub.

Thank you mom and dad for the trip---we love you. We were able to see both families and friends in Utah. It was a quick trip but we're grateful we'll be back in a couple months for Christmas. Love and miss you all already.

Parent Teacher Conference---What The!?!

2009-10-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

I honestly still can't believe that I have a child old enough to be having a parent teacher conference. J had his first PTC yesterday. Tyler and I were the proud parents going into hear all the amazing things about our little boy. Well we were not disappointed. His teacher said he is very advanced in social and reading skills---said he was a "literacy teachers dream". Plays well with others, good listener. She said he's very curious and asks a lot of questions (that one we were well aware of). She also said that J notices everything in the room, if they were to change something they know J will point it out. It was fabulous hearing all the wonderful things about our little boy---makes you feel like all the hard work you put into parenting pays off. What a fabulous parent moment.

best surprise visit EVER!

2009-09-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

I first have to start by saying thank you to my wonderful husband---it's nice to know someone is proud of you. Ty took 4th in his division, he did awesome. It was a great race and I'm happy I have someone to enjoy them with.

Now back to the surprise visit. My sweet sister-in-law Shante' (my lil bro's wife) made the exciting trip to Missouri to come see us (sorry sisters, shan is now at the top of my list. Come pay me a visit and you can work your way up). I'll have to back the story up a bit to the "surprise".

Last weekend we had an over nighter in St. Louis. We went with a couple other families. Went to a Cardinals game (very fun), ate good food and dessert and enjoyed some family time. Then I got the glorious call from Shan asking me if I could pick her up at the airport. I was so excited, jumping up and down, not quite believing she was serious, and filling Tyler in on the details (he of course had known for weeks). Surprises rule!

Here are a couple pics from the game.
Odee taking it all in.

J is always happy if popcorn is involved.

Shan has a great eye for decorating so she helped me give the kids room a lift.
BEFORE

DURING

AFTER
I'm so happy with it.

One of the days we drove to Jefferson City to watch a stage of the Tour of Missouri. It was awesome.

We spent a lot of time staying in our pj's, eating, exercising to work off all our eating, talking, laughing, crafting and taking family walks. Thanks again Shan for coming out, it was just what I needed. It's not easy to get to our little town, I truly appreciate it. Please come back again.
Love you!

My Wife is Fast

2009-09-13T18:14:00.001-07:00

That's right! Aimee won her division at the NEMO Tri, in her triumphant return to triathlon. It's been a couple of years since she has raced (since before she got prego with Odee) so it was nice seeing her back in the habit of winning today. This makes it 3 podium finishes for Aimee and all 3 have been the top step. Actually 4 podium finishes if you count the 3rd place that her relay team took in last years Nemo Tri.
Here she is on the makeshift podium with the 2nd place girl (3rd place was not around for the awards ceremony, too embarrassed by the wooping she got I'm sure).
This is Aim with our friend Valerie who also won her division today. She is in the division just under Aim's so the competition between them is still friendly.....
It was nice racing with Aim again, it has been a while since we had done a race together. The feel of this race was so different from past races. First of all, we are in Missouri (DUH!). Second of all, no family to cheer us on, but plenty of good friends. Third, we didn't have to travel for this one. The tri was at the lake just 10 minutes from our house so it made for a relaxing race. Our friends did us the biggest favor and watched the kids during the race and then we hurried and went and picked them up after we finished and went back for awards (Thanks Warners, we owe you guys. 6:30 a.m. is not the most convenient babysitting time). Fourth, I felt a lil' gay parading around in little spandex in front of a lot of people I know (including classmates). Not sure why that mattered this time but it did. I guess it's just been a while since I squeezed into tri lycra. My cycling lycra is sooo much cooler and leaves more to the imagination.....or does it?

The kids and I didn't come away from this tri empty handed either. Jackson scored a bag of doritos form the post race luncheon, Olivia walked away with Aimee's half-full bike bottle and I came home with fatigue and sunburned "power allies". We're all winners. Congrats Aims.....you are an incredible mommy, wife and triathlete!

Oh Odee!

2009-08-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

This girl is a busy body. Now I thought J was a busy baby but I think she's got him beat. Not only is she into just about EVERYTHING she also has a lot of sass. All day long I find myself picking up after her messes. Even as I'm cleaning them up I think "aimee why don't you just wait until the end of the day, you know she'll make the same mess in about 30 minutes". Anyone else have a difficult time following that rule? I'll look at it as I'm teaching her how to be tidy :)

Miss O emptying out all our shoes and making herself comfy in the shoe basket. This girl LOVES shoes. She usually keeps hers on all day.

Making herself a spot in my cupboards. She likes to throw everything out and then climb on in and shut the door. Helping with laundry.

Chasing Gretta under the bed and then she'll scoot her way under with her.

Ah something to climb on---I'll climb up and then jump off onto the hardwood floor, it's safe.

But seriously could you say no to this face!?! O we love you, you are a sweet girl who is always ready for some fun. Our family would not be the same without you.

Preschool Baby!

2009-08-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't believe my baby boy is in preschool. Wasn't he just born! J was so excited and has been talking about "big boy school" for months. Well the big day finally got here. A couple days before school started we were able to go meet his teacher and see his classroom. He was very impressed and didn't want to leave.

Yesterday it poured and poured so we had to go equip with umbrellas.
Our handsome school boy.

Finding his own cubby hole for his backpack.

When I picked him up and we got in the car he asked me if I cried, I said a little and he said you don't need to cry, see I came back.

J we love you and are so proud of you, we know you will be a spectacular student. O and I miss you when your gone, it's lonely without my little helper. I know you will do great things.

8th Anniversary

2009-08-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't believe we have been married 8 years---where does the time go? It was Tyler's year to do the planning and as usual he did not disappoint. This year our anniversary fell on a Saturday so Friday night we had a little camp out with the kids in the backyard (yes camping with your kids on your anniversary isn't ideal but when your away from family these are your options). The kids loved it and Jackson is already asking to do it again.

Tent helpers.
Hobo dinners.

Smores---of course.

Book reading before bed. The kids slept awesome in the tent and we even had room for Gretta (the dog).

On Saturday some friends of ours watched the kids so Tyler and I could go out. We got take out from Manhattan Cafe and went to 1000 Hills. We rented a canoe and paddled out to a little dock where we had dinner. It was beautiful and peaceful.

Thank you for the wonderful weekend Tyler---it was perfect.
Love you!!!

Vive le Tour!

2009-07-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are bike dorks but we are awesome bike dorks....the kind of bike dorks who throw parties and invite people over to celebrate the Tour de France regardless of whether or not they even watch it. Aimee used her creativeness to put together the deliciousness of each leader jersey from the tour and we even made our first dutch oven cobbler (it pays to have a gravel driveway!) Jackson took home the yellow this year (suck on that Contador!)

Our main goal was to consume as many calories as the riders spent during the final stage of the tour and I'm thinking we came pretty close. We also wanted to see exactly how many families we could fit into our kitchen where our family, by itself, fills it quite nicely.

Next it was time to say goodbye to the 2009 Tour de France in style.....fireworks. The fireworks started with the biggest big bang thanks to the "ball buster" firework (thanks Todd) which was follwed up by roman candles and then came the cops (oink, oink) telling us to put the fireworks away. So I guess fireworks also ended with a little ball busting as well, freakin pigs!

Once the cops left I wouldn't let the man keep us down so the kids stuck it to him with some snaps.

Jackson demonstrated his potential to one day ride the tour as Batman and he even had a crazy fan running along side of him cheering while going up the climb just like in the tour. It was a fun little way to share our nerdiness with our friends in the ville. Thanks to all who came and didn't poke fun a us. (Chambers, Overalls and Craguns...you were missed, I was the only dude there with shaved legs)

On another note, Vive le Piggys! Dang she's cute.

This is what I found when I came home for a quick lunch today, pillows piled on the floor and Jackson teaching Olivia how to make do without a trampoline while ruining a couch. All well, they have fun.

What is wrong with this picture?

2009-07-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

We had to wear jackets and blankets to the Farmer's Market this morning. What is this crazy weather!?! I want summer back.

I'll tell you whats not wrong is when O fell asleep on the way home---and these 2 cute mugs!

Our life back in Kirksville

2009-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Our first week back to Kville felt like Kville didn't want us back. We had a stream of bad luck. Mine and the kids first trip back to Walmart---we had just finished up ALL our shopping (i'm talking a full cart, we were gone for a month) and as we were walking up to the register the lights went out. The workers told us to leave our carts and exit the store. Now many of you have shopped with kids before, not fun. Jackson cried as we left the store, devastated that he couldn't have his Cheetos. First trip back to the pool---we were there 15 minutes when we had to get out of the pool because some little kid had pooped. Again kids crying as we left. Then in that same week we woke up to one of our giant trees down in our backyard. We had a bad wind storm but didn't expect to see this. The funny part is neither Tyler or I even heard it. We were really lucky that the only damage was our neighbors fence. Tyler spent a couple days out with the chainsaw chopping it up.
But we are doing better now and Kville has excepted us back.
Jackson helping with branches. He came out to help shirtless, moon boots and winter mittons.

We have spent a lot of time working in our yard. Since we missed most of the Spring we are now working in the heat, and it has been hot.

Painting the flower box.

Finished product.

Painting window frames.

Painting our basement doors.

Finished product (red and white, like the rest of the house).

Newest member of our family---Gretta.
She is a australian shepherd/collie mix. She is only about 8 weeks old (it's like having another 1 year old). She is adorable and the kids adore her.

And a lot of this. We love summer!!!

C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A

2009-06-26T19:27:00.000-07:00

Lot's of fun in the sun. We spent a week in California with my family in a beach house. It was a much needed restful family vacation. We spent most our time playing on the beach, boogie boarding, swimming, Reeder dance-off, beach fires, eating ice cream on the pier, runs on the beach, and talking. We did spend one day in Disneyland. Kids first Disney experience and Jackson loved it (i'm assuming Odee did too). He wasn't afraid of anything and did all the rides. It was a fabulous trip. Thanks Mom and Dad R.

J loved the pool, much more than the ocean. It was the first thing he asked to do when waking up in the morning. Miss O enjoying the pool.

Cousins. Ready 1 2 3---jump!

Tyler trying to convince J that boogie boarding is fun---yes that is the look of fear on his face.

Little T and A (and I do mean tyler and aimee)

Olivia on the other hand loved the ocean and we couldn't keep her out of it.

REEDER BEACH FUN RUN/KIDS RUN
1/2 mile/3 mile

On our last night we went out for fish tacos on the pier.

DISNEYLAND!!!

Missouri-Utah-California-Utah-Missouri

2009-06-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

Honestly how can I sum up a whole month of fun!?! I have so many pictures that I'll have to do a separate post for California. We had such a wonderful time seeing family and friends, biking (we miss those beautiful Utah mountains), sleepover with my girlfriends, going to the Draper temple, relaxing, not cooking any meals and eating out at all our favorite restaurants. This trip felt a lot more laid back than Christmas, not so much running around. But of course the time flew by. The kids and I left to Utah a few days before Tyler, he had to go to Seattle for a conference and then met up with us. I love when he can be there with us. It was a wonderful break.

And she walks! Olivia grew up on this trip. She came back walking and with 2 more teeth. She loves being able to walk and loves her shoes (she's usually carting them around).

This was usually where we could find Jackson---on the trap. He liked to show off his sweet tricks. Now J and I are trying to talk Tyler into getting one for our backyard.
Plenty of wrestle time with Uncle Daniel, which includes wedgies and swirlies. J adores him. Odee does too. When we first got to my mom's she would only go to him.

Hanging out with his girl-friends (to bad one is related:)

Hogle Zoo with the Smith cousins.

We spent an evening up at Tyler's families new cabin. It was beautiful, hopefully next time we can spend the night. The kids love being with their cousins.

First steps

2009-05-18T21:26:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl took her first steps last Saturday. She thought she was amazing (and so did we). She loved for us to clap and give her praises. We were so glad she did it before we left on our trip so Tyler wouldn't miss it.

Good job little Odee!!!

My last year in my 20's

2009-05-18T21:18:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet husband knows me so well. For Mother's day he got me a fire pit for the backyard. Then for my Birthday we had some friends come over for smore's---mmm I love smore's. It was a fabulous evening---the adults could sit and talk and the kids ran wild. We are looking forward to summer nights.

My marshmellow cake

Olivia loves being outside---and eating sugar

Brad teasing the little ones

Thank you Tyler, it was a wonderful Birthday

Birthday Superhero

2009-05-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

Break out your capes, masks and superhero powers---Jackson's having a Birthday!

Although Jackson's Birthday isn't until the end of the month we did an early bday party since we're skippin' town soon. We went with the superhero theme (of course, it was that or transformers). It was kind of a chili day for the park put the hero's were brave. Does the cold even effect kids when there's candy and a playground involved?

THE SUPERHERO SCAVENGER HUNT

THE OPENING OF PRESENTS
It was hilarious watching all the kids gather round, I could barley sneak in for a pic.

BIRTHDAY CAKE
This is Jackson pretending to blow out the candles. We couldn't get them to light because of the wind (don't worry bud, you'll get another cake in utah).

19 LITTLE SUPERHEROS
(kirkville is no longer in danger)

Happy Birthday to my beautiful 4 year old. I love you more and more every day. We would be lost without you, you truly have brough happiness to our family.

Tornado in Kirksville

2009-05-18T20:36:00.001-07:00

Okay I'm a little late at posting about this but man what a crazy week it has been. A tornado hit Kirksville last Wednesday. What a surreal experience. The tornado touched down about 2 miles away from our home. We had to go down into our shelter for a bit (one thing I never wanted to have to do). It's hard to put into words the sadness of such a disaster. Our family was fortunate enough to come out with no damage but some weren't so lucky. In one area that the tornado hit was a street full of med students and many families in our ward. No one was injured but houses were destroyed. My heart aches for their loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Win Free Pictures

2009-05-17T09:11:00.001-07:00

Liza Jane Photography
She does a beautiful job
Click HERE for details

Kidos

2009-05-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Odee has had some "first" over the past few weeks. She is definitely finding her feisty side. She has a good set of lungs and knows how to use them. But she redeems herself quickly with her cuteness. She's really good at saying "no" although it comes out more like "na". Even though she's not quite walking she still knows how to get around and get into everything. She is standing all the time, just a little to scared to take that first step----I'm sure it's coming soon.

She loves this ladder and it makes me super nervous. I'd climb for that candy too.

Oh the pigtails. One of my friends came over and we decided to give it a try. I am yet to try it on my own, she's a wiggly girl. These were bitter sweet for me---I loved that her hair was long enough but it also made her look to big (i would just like to keep them small forever).

I also painted her toenails this week---mmm little girls.

My sweet J. Always a helper and a lover of his sis. Still has to be the first one to get O out of bed and give her loves in the morning. Here's his playdough model of Olivia. Even added the "O" so we knew who it was.

J is the man of many faces throughout the day. Spiderman, Batman, Superman, Ninja. My favorite was the other day when he asked to dress up like a missionary. I shot this picture right when a breeze came through---luscious hair.

BATMAN!

We're all getting very excited for our trip to Utah in a few weeks. Can't wait to see you all.

St. Louis 1/2 Marathon

2009-04-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well if I could describe this race in one word it would be WET. It rained all 13.1 miles. You can't tell to much in this picture but we were drenched by mile 2. When we got back to the hotel I could ring my socks out and my feet were pruned. But all in all it was a great race. It felt good to get out and race again, haven't done much since before Odee was born. The race course ran you through downtown St. Louis. You started and ended by the arch which was pretty amazing.
Mel and Brad also ran the race. Mel and I did all our training together---it saved me having someone to run with. Now that Tyler and I don't live by family it's a bit harder for both of us to do the same race (someone's got to watch the kidos). I felt bad he wasn't able to do it with us but he was such a trooper and brought the kids to the finish line, thanks babe (thank goodness for the chariot stroller, the kids didn't feel a drop).
The day before the race we were able to walk around St. Louis. We visited the arch which is awesome. One day we hope to ride up it.

All Jackson could talk about is getting to the hotel for a swim. Here he is showing off his new backwards jump.
And he's learned how to tread water just enough to keep his head barley above water. The boy loves to swim.
No swimming for poor little Olivia. She came down with an infection in her eye and it spread to the other eye too. But we got some drops and she is on the mend.
Thanks for the excellent little getaway St. Louis. Great family time and delicious food.

Etsy Giveaway!

2009-04-20T11:18:00.001-07:00

Check out my friends blog SEW SARA she is having a giveaway. She makes and sells the cutest stuff on Etsy. Check it out!

eAsTeR

2009-04-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

How I love Easter. I love knowing that the weather will soon be getting warmer, all the fun spring colors, buying the kids new church clothes, and of course the delicious Easter candy. Mmmm something about Easter candy. I'm still craving it. Easter was a little bitter-sweet not having family close by. But it was good to start some of our own family traditions. Our weekend went a bit like this---
Coloring Easter eggs. A "must do" that Jackson adored
SAA Easter hunt. Plenty of eggs for all the kids and there was a cute baby lamb there
Easter morning. Baskets left by the Easter Bunny (jackson requested that we tell the Easter Bunny not to come into his room), more eggs with candy, Odee discovering chocolate, new kite, new church clothes, gingerbread pancakes with strawberries
A delicious Easter dinner at the Chamber's house
I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

Osteopathic Fun Run.....Done!

2009-04-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo! Can't believe the race has come and gone. For those of you that may not know every year SAA (med school spouse association) puts on a Fun Run and I chaired it this year along with my friend Gentri. It was definitely one of the hardest but most rewarding experiences I've had. Really made me appreciate all the work that goes into putting on a race. All proceeds from this race go to a local charity of our choice. We picked a charity right here in Kirksville so we could see the money go back into this great community. A lot of local businesses donated food, drinks, medals, raffle prizes, and money. We had over 150 racers and it was a beautiful day for running. The local news even showed up (love a small town). Jackson is in this news clip.

My partner in crime, Gentri.
I D.O. DO U? was our slogan (play on words for DOCTOR OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE) and yes we thought we were quite creative :)

I put Tyler to work. He was our lead pace biker.

Looking excited to run.

Giving out medals. We had to move inside after a bit because it got a little cold.

We also had a kids run. It was about .40 of a mile. Jackson was so excited about this. He was determined to win. Well he didn't win but he did run the whole time and got a prize afterwards. He was happy about that.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered and ran---we couldn't have done it without you. Thank you Tyler for being so supportive and putting up with having to hear about fun run non-stop the past few months. When we got home yesterday he have me a gift card for a massage---can't wait to use that :)

Spring Break 2009

2009-03-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

Okay be prepared for pictures. I'm not sure the best way to put a lot of pictures on here so if anyone knows I'm open for suggestions??? Well it's nice to have a spring break---feel like I'm in High School all over again (minus the raging parties and a week in a bikini, okay I've never done that). School is definitely a lot of work but it's nice to have a whole week to spend together. So for Spring Break we headed to St. Louis for a couple days with some friends. Jackson was in heaven with friends to play with ALL DAY. The weather was beautiful. We spent one day at the St. Louis Zoo (the zoo is free here and it's amazing) and one day at a children's museum called the Magic House. The hotel we stayed in was...memorable. It was one of those hotels you would expect a poor student to stay in. All I'm saying is when we first got there and opened our hotel room door there was a guy laying on the bed in his boxers---oops! He didn't seem to mind. But it was a wonderful trip. We also were able to spend a few days at home as a family. It was hard letting Tyler go back to school. Thanks goodness we have summer to look forward to.

zoo
Olivia and Nash livin' it up baby style in the stroller.

My handsome boy.

The Gorillas. All the animals were super active and out to play.

The hippos were amazing. They just kept swimming around and around. They were a highlight of the zoo.

The Magic House.
Jackson made it all the way to the top. This "tree" started on the main level and then you climb up to the 2nd level.

Jackson loved this. When you played the piano keys bubbles would go through the pipes.

Bubble boy. So much discovery in this place.

They had a great section for the little ones. So even Olivia was able to join in on the fun.

Sweet thing.

Well our stellar hotel did have a swimming pool---the kids loved it.

Smiths---Overalls---Craguns
We will you miss you guys when you move in a few short months.
SPRING BREAK 09 ROCKED!

Happy 1st Birthday Odee!

2009-03-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet baby girl!. Olivia turned 1 yesterday (March 20th). Your dad and I can't believe how fast the past year has gone by. It feels like we just brought you home from the hospital. Olivia you have truly lightened our family's life. You are such a sweet happy girl who has a lot of love to give. We love you Odee.

Here are some of the fun things your doing at age one---
*Big big smiles. Always have a smile to give.
*Give hugs while patting our back.
*For some strange reason think you need a binki when it's time to sleep, you suck it a couple times and then spit it out.
*Still think nursing is awesome.
*Favorite food is goldfish.
*Pretend to wash your hair in the tubby.
*Adore your brother Jackson, and he adores you back.
*Stand up on EVERYTHING and love to get into EVERYTHING.
*Sing when you hear music.
*Everything you touch goes directly into your mouth.
*Say Mama and Dada.
*Get excited and crawl as fast as you can when you hear the front door open.
*Love to be outside.
*Love to play patty cake.

We had a small birthday party for Olivia today---a polka dot party! It was strange not having grandparents, aunts and uncles or cousins here to celebrate but thank you to all who called and sent gifts---Olivia was grateful :)

I made a banana cake. Olivia loves bananas.

She was very excited about her cake and candle. I had to hold her back from grabbing it.

Once she had the chance to eat it she wasn't sure what to do.
"Is this really mine?"

"You sure I can eat this?"

"Oh yeah that's good!"

"Best first birthday ever!"

Happy birthday beautiful girl---we love you!

How we've missed you

2009-03-14T18:39:00.000-07:00

Oh daddy how we have missed you---you have been so busy. We are so grateful that 2nd quarter is over and now you get to spend ONE WHOLE WEEK at home. We will cherish every moment we have with you. Thank goodness for Spring Break!

Small town = get crafty

2009-03-14T18:21:00.000-07:00

So I have always wanted to learn how to sew, I guess there's no better time then now. Tyler got me a sewing machine for Christmas and I have some friends that are excellent sewers, so no excuses. We have started getting together every other week with a new project. Here is my first one---a blanket for Olivia. I also did a pillow case for Jackson but he's already in bed so no pic. Pretty easy projects but I've got to get my straight lines down first.

Last week we made these super cute pin cushions off of Heather Bailey's website. Now this was a bit more challenging for me, but I'm quit happy with it.

And this one I'm super excited about. Okay I didn't sew the guitar. For those of you that have known me for a long time know I use to play this all the time. But for some strange reason stopped about 10 years ago. I didn't even bring my guitar to Kville. My friend is an amazing guitar player and she happened to have an extra one here so I am borrowing it and she is going to teach me her mad skills. Tyler says we have to refer to it as a "jam session". I have been playing around on it the past week and even found my old guitar book with all my music. Most of it has come back to me but I need a lot of practice. It feels really good to play again and now I wonder why I ever stopped.

Random Pics

2009-02-26T18:18:00.000-08:00

Ah sibling love---need I say more?

Abba! Who wouldn't want to kiss that face!

Odee thinking she needs to feed herself---she's getting way to big.

My independent boy. So cute watching him try to pump up his bike tire just like his dad.

Chores. When he's done unloading the silverware he asks for money---they learn quickly.

Sweet little surprise from Ty's parents. MEAT! We were so grateful. I don't know if I was more excited for the meat or the GIANT bag of chocolate chips. Jackson was super happy about those, he definitely has my sweet tooth.

LoVe LoVe LoVe

2009-02-14T20:49:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day, Saturday night, cold outside. Me, alone, sitting at my computer. Okay it's not really that bad, but seriously I miss my hubby. Sadly I'm sure there are more nights like this to come. It's not like he's off doing something fun without me, unless studying for a test is more fun then hanging out with his wife----impossible! I love you babe.
Luckily we were able to spend last night with each other and we're moving our "Valentine's Day" to next week when things aren't' so crazy. Although V-Day has never been a big day for us, but it is nice to go out. Last night SAA had their February Formal. We were able to get dressed up, have FREE babysitting, FREE food and be with friends. It was an etiquette dinner so we learned a lot, or I may be confused more now then ever on what fork to use for what. But we had fun.

Jackson was pretty excited about Valentine's. Here he is hiding a gift for Tyler, although for the past week he's been saying "Mommy let's give daddy his book". He's a great secret keeper.

Valentine brownies---too yummy!

Little Olivia Valentine is named after my Grandma B. Her name is Emma Valentine (she always went by Val or Valentine). Today is Grandma B's birthday, she passed away 7 years ago. One day I know Olivia will know the sweetness of her name. Grandma B was such a fun sweet Grandma. She was lovable and loved her family. She could make you laugh and loved laughing at her own jokes (much like my mom now). You are missed Grandma. Happy Birthday Valentine!

Thoughts by Odee

2009-02-10T18:41:00.000-08:00

I've finally figured out how to rule the house the past couple days. Jackson thought he had it covered but I'm learning. My Mom and Dad have this CRAZY idea that I need naps during the day---ha foolish! Don't they realize that I am 10 months old, much to mature for naps. So the past 3 days I have been boycotting all naps. They lay me down, tuck me in, turn on the mobile but I just don't have time for laying down. There is some playing that needs to be done. I get up, crawl around, stand up and bounce. Who knew that my bed could be used for such fun! Maybe I'll give in one of these days and sleep, I know my Mom would really appreciate it.

Good Day Sunshine!

2009-02-07T17:31:00.000-08:00

We FINALLY had a break in the cold weather and were able to get out and enjoy some much needed sunshine. It was wonderful. Although I think it's probably a cruel trick because I know the cold will return. But we took full advantage of it and went to the park 3 days in a row. The kids loved it. Jackson got a new bike for Christmas and was excited to be able to take it to the park.

Olivia's first time on a swing---as you can tell, she loved it!

Tyler is in the Biomed club and they put on an event this weekend called WINNERFEST where they raised money to go to a family who's husband/father passed away 6 years ago while attending ATSU. There where a few different events you could pay to play in (raquet ball, dodgeball, pingpong, arm wrestling ect.). Tyler played dodgeball---that game is vicious! I decided last minute to do the bench press. Took first thank you very much---that's right WATCH OUT! They also had kid events. Jackson loved the basketball and took first in his age division (watch out uncle daniel) and in a balloon game. We were real proud of the Smith's this weekend :)

Officially Blogspotters

2009-02-03T18:16:00.000-08:00

Well we thought we would join the rest of the world and get our very own blogspot. We have truly enjoyed our family website (that we have had for nearly 5 years) but thought due to cutting back expenses this may be the way to go. I don't have much exciting news at this point. Kirksville is very cold, to cold for my bones. I am ready for spring. I think the kids are too. And I'm sure Tyler is----pretty sure riding his bike to school in -15 degerees has gotten old, he's such a trooper. I'm staying busy with the kids and getting the Fun Run organized. It has been A LOT of work but very rewarding. My kids have been so patient as I drive them all over town and spend hours a day making phone calls.

Speaking of the kids. Little Odee has discovered her tongue. It's constantly hanging out of her mouth and usually with a giant smile.

Jackson gave his first primary talk last Sunday. I can't believe I have a child old enough to be giving primary talks! He was so brave and not scared at all, he did awesome. He was so excited and all during sacrament he kept asking if it was his turn yet. Jackson you are a joy.